B.A. HAMZAH
1. I will focus my remarks on the under currents in Malaysian politics. In particular I like to share with you the much talked in the international financial community about the currency controls in Malaysia. But before that let me address the specific question that Ogawa - san has asked me. It is in respect of whether Malaysia will undergo a tumultous political change or not, in particular whether Dr Mahathir will remain as the Prime Minister.
2. Although we now enter into an area of conjecture and speculation over this matter, I remain bullish. Dr Mahathir will continue as the PM and that any political change in Malaysia will be peaceful as it has always been since 1955. The next general election will not be due before May 2000. But it could be earlier depending on the political dynamics in the country. These days when we talk about Malaysian politics, it will invariably focus on the health of the Premier. Dr Mahathir is 73. Had a coronary bypass 10 years ago - getting stronger despite the advanced age. Compared against some leading statesmen, he is not old. For example, Miyazawa is 79,the late Deng Xio Peng was 89 when he passed away, ex-President was Suharto 74 when he stepped down, Senator Glenn was 77 when he went to the outer space for the second time in 1998. Of course, some people become deadwood even at 50. Of course, Gadaffi (Libya) and Castro- have been in office for as long as I could remember. True Dr Mahathir has been a Prime Minister for the past 17 years. Chancellor Kohl of Germany also spent 17 years before his party lost to the Social Democratic Party in the recent election. Mr. Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore was Prime Minister for 31 years.
